Piper classic vs. Piper nv — What’s the Difference?

The Piper classic and Piper nv are two camera models with a good amount of similarities. Both the Piper classic and Piper nv are security cameras that don’t require a base station, and offer a convenient and easy setup. With both models, you can manage up to 5 units per account, and neither model requires a subscription (unlike Arlo, Canary, and Nest). Additionally, the Piper classic and nv share the same warranty, app, and field of view.

Unfortunately, these models also share some drawbacks. For example, neither model supports continuous recording (like the Arlo Q), which may be a dealbreaker for some buyers.

Though these models have a lot in common, there are a few differences that set these models apart which are important to consider before buying a camera. So let’s take a look at Piper classic vs. Piper nv!

Piper classic vs. Piper nv — Differences

Difference #1: Camera quality – One of the main differences that set these two cameras apart is the actual camera. The technical specs show a small but significant disparity between the two models.

The Piper classic features a 2MP CMOS sensor with 1.3MP streaming and a 1280 x 1088 pixel resolution.

The Piper nv, on the other hand, has a 3.4MP CMOS sensor with 1.57 streaming and an HD 1536 x 1088 pixel resolution. So, to put it short, the nv has a small, but noticeable advantage when it comes to camera quality. It might not seem significant, however, if high quality is what you’re looking for, then Piper nv is better choice here.

Difference #2: Night vision – Night vision is also an important consideration, as the evening is often when your home is the most vulnerable.

The Piper classic has no night vision, while the Piper nv features infrared vision. Infrared offers an advantage over traditional LED night vision due to the more discreet filming process. Without activating any sort of light, the nv can relay a high resolution, 180-degree immersive view for both live and recorded video.

Classic Z-Wave products may take advantage of some of this latest technology, but they’re not required to use all of it like Z-Wave Plus Certified products are.

It’s important to note that while Z-Wave Plus has the advantage, there are over 70 million classic and plus products in use every day and they meet the needs of most situations satisfactorily.

Difference #4: Plug types – Though both products are pretty similar in support for different plug types (Type A for North America and Type C and G for Europe), it’s worth mentioning that the Piper nv also supports Type C plugs for users based in Israel.

This difference will only affect a small amount of consumers, but will make all the difference for customers in that area.

Difference #5: Price – The last major difference between the Piper classic and the Piper nv is price. It’s clear that the nv is the more fully featured of the two products, but it comes with the downside of retailing for higher price mark than the classic version.

Whether the additional functionality of the nv is worth it is a personal decision based on the needs of your home.

Piper classic vs. Piper nv — Comparison Table

Piper classic vs. Piper nv — Our Thoughts

Both the Piper classic and Piper nv offer a viable option for home security, but there are some notable negatives that are worth mentioning when wrapping up this comparison. Piper cameras operate at a 2.4 GHz frequency, which can cause problems with connection and speed.

We’re big fans of the 180-degree field of view and built-in sirens, but what are the benefits of these features if there’s an unstable connection? When choosing between these two models, we recommend the nv, but there are other reliable options available at a similar price point.

Our Score:

Piper classic

Piper nv

4.4

Let us know what you think!

If you had to choose between Piper classic vs. Piper nv smart camera, what would you choose and why?

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